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The mining rush in southeastern Pará, Brazil, is driven by demand for critical minerals essential for the energy transition and defense industries. Vale leads with 201 applications for copper, manganese, and nickel, 80 of which overlap with agrarian reform settlements housing over 14,000 families.

The Energy Transition Observatory highlights that mining companies are targeting established settlements, raising concerns over environmental impacts and social consequences. Historical land conflicts persist as the region grapples with poverty despite significant mining tax revenues. Recent reports indicate potential contamination and displacement issues linked to mining operations, complicating the lives of local communities.